Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy Thoriq Ibrahim has stated that a plan has been formulated to implement a programme to plant five million trees in the Maldives.
The programme was announced by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu during the Twenty-Eighth Session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in Dubai. The programme aims to plant five million trees over the next five years.
Speaking to PSM News, Minister Thoriq highlighted the development of a detailed plan for the tree planting programme. He said that the programme includes considerations such as the selection of tree varieties and strategic planting locations across the Maldives. He also emphasised the importance of aligning the programme with existing land use plans, particularly on islands with reclaimed land, where plans for roads and other purposes have been integrated into the programme.
Additionally, Minister Thoriq mentioned President Dr. Muizzu's commitment to sourcing tree donations from neighboring countries, a pledge made during COP28. He also noted that the programme is not only a governmental effort but will involve participation from companies, resorts, and individuals.
The ministry stated that it will also establish tree nurseries dedicated to the programme. The nurseries will serve as crucial hubs for tree pruning and the maintenance of imported trees, contributing to the overall success of the programme.